Washtenaw issues mask, occupancy, event size limit, and screening protocol orders

Monday afternoon, the Washtenaw County Health Department released local emergency public health orders to keep COVID-19 prevention and control strategies in place in Washtenaw County, given that Michigan Executive Orders are now uncertain. Washtenaw County Health Officer Jimena Loveluck, MSW, has issued countywide orders on the use of face coverings, social gatherings, bar and restaurant capacity and employee health screenings.

The orders confirm that residents, businesses and organizations can and should continue following public health guidance to reduce and prevent the spread of COVID-19 locally:

• Use face coverings in all public settings and anywhere 6 feet of distance cannot be maintained between individuals not living in the same house.
• Limit the size of indoor and outdoor gatherings and require measures to prevent the spread of illness.
• Keep the capacity of bars and restaurants to 50 percent or less.
• Continue to complete mandatory, daily health screenings of employees.

State law provides local health officers with the authority to issue orders to protect the public health under Section 2453 of the Public Health Code (MCL 333.2453). Any violations are subject to citations and penalties as outlined in the Michigan Public Health Code.

Susan Ringler-Cerniglia of the Health Department explained that some enforcement comes through the health department itself but that they are working with local law enforcement as well. She stated, “The Health Officer has been in communication with the Sheriff and is meeting with other [police] chiefs later this week.”

Because much of the enforcement was already happening on the local level, the health department is optimistic local orders can keep the primary preventative measures in place.

“There is no question that wearing face coverings, keeping distance, cleaning hands and fully cooperating with health officials reduces the spread of COVID-19 and prevents additional cases,” says Loveluck.

Washtenaw County has reported a total of 3,459 confirmed cases of COVID-19 to date. According to the MI Safe Start Map, Washtenaw County is at the second highest risk level (D) for daily cases per million (86.3). Positivity has increased this past week but remains relatively low at 2.2%.

To reduce the spread of illness in our community, the Health Department recommends wearing a face covering, maintaining 6 feet of distance from others not in your household and cleaning hands frequently. Testing is recommended for anyone reporting to work in person, with known exposure or with any mild or unusual symptoms. Symptoms may take up to 14 days after exposure to appear, and individuals are considered contagious two days before symptoms appear.

The number of local cases, guidance for employers, prevention information, testing options and more are available at www.washtenaw.org/covid19. Health Department staff are also available to answer questions. Call 734-544-6700 or email l-wchdcontact@washtenaw.org. 

Resources from Washtenaw County Health Department

• Washtenaw County Public Health Emergency Orders Issued Oct 5, 2020:
  • Facial Coverings,
  • Gatherings and Events,
  • Capacity Limits for Food Service Establishments (restaurants/bars), and
  • Workplace Screening.
• Face Coverings Required sign
• For testing, see www.washtenaw.org/covid19test
• COVID-19: What You Need to Know Fact Sheet

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.